2003 Young Alumni Achievement Award Recipient: Jennifer Mercer

The 2003 Young Alumni Achievement Award went to Jennifer Mercer, a 1997 graduate of BHSU, who recently earned a Ph.D. in earth sciences with a focus in organic geochemistry from Dartmouth and spent six weeks conducting post-doctorate research in Antarctica.

Mercer, who is originally from Spearfish, returned to her alma mater to accept the award. She feels that her education at BHSU has been an integral part of her success and encourages students to explore their options and make the most of their experiences while in college.

“Seven years ago I attended this banquet as a student,” she said. “At that time I didn’t think I would ever be back here getting an award but my experiences have made that possible."